Do sealants really work to prevent cavities?
Sealants are very effective in preventing cavities because they block the collection of food and bacteria on the grooved surfaces of the back teeth. They are not useful between the teeth and therefore flossing is needed in those areas. Sealants are particularly effective on first permanent molars when applied shortly after their eruption, which is usually at the age of 6. The sealants are applied in a “non-invasive”, bonded manner to these surfaces, may be easily evaluated or reapplied, and are relatively inexpensive.
